Travel Guide to Havasupai Indian Reservation and its Stunning Waterfalls

Havasupai Indian Reservation is a hidden gem in the heart of the Grand Canyon, home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the United States. The journey to Havasupai, including the famous Havasu Falls, is an unforgettable adventure. This guide aims to help fellow travelers prepare for their own Havasupai experience and ensure a positive and respectful visit to this unique destination.

Trip Dates:

• We embarked on our adventure from September 22, 2023, to September 24, 2023.

Gear/Pre-Stay:

• We flew into Las Vegas from Wisconsin/Minnesota and rented most of our gear from REI in Las Vegas. The staff, especially “J,” provided invaluable tips and tricks for our gear selection.
• We spent the night before our journey at the Grand Caverns Inn. While it was an older motel, the hot shower and amazing restaurant were welcomed luxuries.
• Essential gear included trekking poles and headlamps, inflatable pads, sleeping blankets for cool nights (50-60 degrees), and a tent.
• We were grateful for the leftover table, which provided a fuel canister and tarp.

Hiking:

• The hike into Havasupai covers over 15 miles with 35+ lb. packs and took us roughly 5 hours. We chose to take the helicopter out, which was a wise decision.
• The hike, although seemingly flat, is challenging due to sandy, gravelly, and uneven terrain. It felt like walking in sand for hours.
• We packed 3L of water each but ended up consuming only about 1L, partly due to the cool morning temperatures.
• Training with your loaded pack is recommended to prepare for the hike’s physical demands.
• Be cautious of the weather. Even when it’s forecasted to be clear, it can rain intermittently, leading to muddy, slippery trails and flash flood risks.
• The village is worth exploring, but be prepared for a more challenging hike to your campsite after the village. Take breaks, as it’s not a flat terrain.

Food:

• We packed electrolyte tablets, Cliff Bars, dehydrated meals, protein and sugary snacks, which proved to be sufficient for our needs.
• The village store has limited groceries, so it’s wise to stock up before arriving.
• We regretted missing out on the fry bread stand in the campground. However, we encountered a friendly woman with a fry bread stand near the helicopter pad after our flight. It was a delightful treat, so leave her a good tip!

Critters:

• To protect our food from critters, we used a hard plastic goods bag and experienced no issues.
• While on the trail, we encountered a fascinating black and white king snake, reminding us that snakes are present even when not seen. Be cautious.

Cell Service & Helicopter:

• Cell service in Havasupai is limited, but we were able to connect to public internet in the village and use Facebook Messenger.
• To catch the helicopter out, leave camp early (we set out at 3:30 am) to secure a good position in line. It’s a bit of a gamble, but it’s worth it. Cash only, $100 per person each way.
• Connect with fellow travelers and share your experiences. We met some fantastic people who made our journey even more memorable.

Advice:

• Take the time to enjoy the breathtaking views. Stop often, take short videos, and capture every moment.
• Rest and snack frequently to reduce the risk of blisters.
• The canyon’s weather can change quickly, so bring rain gear.
• A JetBoil was great for cooking, but consider packing a washcloth for a refreshing face rinse at the end of dusty days.
• Remember that visiting Havasupai is a privilege, and respect the land by adhering to the rules. Leave no trace and pack out what you bring in.

Havasupai is a truly special place that connects us with the natural world. Be thankful for the opportunity to explore this remote, stunning landscape and cherish the experience. Let’s all do our part to preserve this unique destination for future generations.